Police appeal for help after Barnoldswick train conductor is attacked

A TRAIN conductor from Barnoldswick was assaulted by a passenger on the 9.31am service from Bradford Forster Square to Shipley on Saturday, August 2.

Now, officers from British Transport Police (BTP) have released a picture of the suspect and are appealing for the public’s help to identify the man.

Investigating officer PC Kevin Webster said: “The incident took place just before 9.45am just prior to the train’s arrival into Shipley.

“The train conductor, a 38-year-old man from Barnoldswick, was undertaking a ticket check on the train. He approached a man who was asleep, or pretending to be asleep, and tried to wake him to ask to see his ticket.

"When he was unable to do so he continued his checks throughout the carriage and returned a few minutes later and attempted to wake him again.

“The man ‘woke up’ and began to verbally abuse the conductor before trying to punch him a number of times.

“As the train arrived into Shipley the conductor opened the doors and got onto the platform. The man followed him and attacked him, punching him a number of times before leaving the station."

PC Webster added: “Despite the man's intentions, luckily the victim wasn’t injured but understandably was extremely shaken and distressed following this violent attack.

“The conductor was simply doing his job and shouldn’t be subjected to such aggressive and brutal behaviour. If you recognise the man pictured or know his current whereabouts please contact us, it’s vital that we find the person responsible and bring him to justice.”

Anyone with information is asked to call British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 405040, or text 6106. Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.